Camshaft Identification

[mgb2010]

Does anyone know the markings/serial/part numbers that can be used to identify the camshafts on the 8v lotus/ford twincam engine? I know that the number of grooves on the mounting for the timing sprocket can be used, but is there anything more definate than this?

-MGB-

[steveww]

AFAIK you only have the grooves to go on. This does not help much if someone has had the cam reground at some point. I guess the only way to be totally sure is to measure it. If the cam is in the engine this can be done with a dial indicator and degree wheel. I would also think that a good engineering shop would be able to measure it out of the engine.

[mgb2010]

The reason I ask is that I have acquired a spare S/E engine, the cams have no grooves in but probably should. So is the engine not what I think it is or has it non-standard cams? I noted that the cams had two sets of markings stamped into them, these were identical for both inlet and exhaust. I will jot them down tonight and see if they throw any light.

-mgb-

[gjz30075]

What are the indicators that suggest this is an SE engine? If its a weber type, look for 32mm chokes and jetting. Besides the cams, I think this is the major change to make an engine an SE type.

[steveww]

Check the engine number..... All these are SE of some type

C = c cam
E = cortina c cam
F = c cam
H = d cam high compression
J = escort c cam
L = stromberg d cam hc
M = stromberg d cam hc
Q = europa d cam hc
V = europa c cam

Most engines have been messed about with by now so who know what you have. The Wilkins book has some useful pointers.

Cams - no groove = B cam, 1 = C S/E cam, 2= D Super S/E cam